ILS Orbits Eutelsat 9B Satellite with EDRS Laser Payload

International Launch Services (ILS) launched the Eutelsat 9B satellite carrying the first European Data Relay System (EDRS) payload into orbit using a Proton rocket. Built by Airbus Defence and Space, Eutelsat 9B carries 56 Ku-band transponders for the 9 degrees east orbital position.